Fatal Collision on Malaysia’s East-West Highway Claims 15 Lives
In a devastating accident in northern Malaysia, a bus transporting university students collided with a minivan early Monday, resulting in the deaths of at least 15 people. The crash occurred near the Thailand border on the heavily trafficked East-West Highway.
Immediate Aftermath and Casualties
Authorities reported that thirteen victims died instantly at the scene, while two others succumbed to their injuries in the hospital. Another 31 individuals sustained injuries of varying severity.
The Perak state disaster management authority detailed the chaotic scene, noting, “The bus overturned and the minivan slid into a ditch.” Some passengers managed to escape on their own, others were thrown from the vehicle, while several remained trapped inside the overturned bus.
Victims Were University Students
The bus was ferrying students from Sultan Idris Education University located north of Kuala Lumpur. The collision occurred around 1:00 a.m. local time, catching rescuers in the middle of the night.
Rescue teams faced major challenges retrieving the victims, employing hydraulic cutters to free those still trapped inside the bus wreckage.
Context: Road Safety Concerns in Malaysia
This tragic incident highlights Malaysia’s ongoing struggle with road safety. Recent reports have underscored the alarming frequency of traffic accidents, with an estimated life lost every two hours on the country’s roads.
Authorities continue to investigate the cause of the crash, emphasizing the need for improved safety measures to prevent such heartbreaking losses in the future.
Summary
- 15 fatalities including university students.
- Collision between a bus and a minivan near the Thailand border.
- 31 people injured, several requiring emergency rescue.
- Incident underscores Malaysia’s high rate of traffic accidents.
